Camping Oldoinyo Lengai, the active volcano in Tanzania, can be a thrilling experience! Here's how you could plan a trip that involves three nights camping and one night at the summit:

Day 1: Arrival and Camp Setup

Arrival: Arrive at the area around Oldoinyo Lengai. Depending on your starting point, this may involve driving or hiking.

Camping Location: Set up your camp near the base of the volcano. Make sure to prepare for any specific needs (water, food, etc.).

Evening: Enjoy a campfire dinner and the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 2: Explore Surroundings

Day Activities: Depart for Oldoinyo Lengai (starts around 11-12 AM to reach the summit by sunrise).

Photography: Ascend the volcano (approximately 9-10 hours round trip). The hike is challenging, but the views from the summit are spectacular, especially the sunrise.

Night Camp: Return to your base. Relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Day 3: Hiking Preparation

Preparation: Use this day to prepare for your summit hike the next day. Ensure you have enough water, snacks, and gear.

Acclimatization: If you’re not used to the altitude, make sure to take some time to acclimatize.

Evening: Relax and get a good night's rest to prepare for the summit hike.

Day 4: Summit Night Hike

Summit Preparation: Start your hike in the early hours of the morning (around midnight) to reach the summit for sunrise.

Hiking: The hike to the summit can take 4-6 hours, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed.

At the Summit: Enjoy the breathtaking views and the unique volcanic activity, especially if the lava is flowing.

Stay at the Top If camping at the top is feasible, set up a temporary camp to enjoy the unique experience of sleeping at the summit.

Day 5: Descent and Depart

Descending: Early morning, begin your descent back to the base of the volcano.

Departure: Once you've returned, pack up your gear and prepare for your journey home or to your next destination.

Camping Tips

Gear: Make sure to bring proper camping gear, including a good tent, sleeping bags rated for cold weather, and cooking equipment.

Safety: Always be aware of the volcanic activity and potential hazards. Check local guidelines and safety tips.

Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and ensure safety.

This plan can be tailored to your preferences, level of experience, and the time of year you're visiting. Enjoy your adventure!